Astéracées • Cichorium endiva var. latifolium

Batavian escarole chicory - Organic

"A leaf that combines sweetness and bitterness, prolonging abundance even into the coldest days."

$4.49

Number of seeds 250 seeds

Native to Europe , Batavian escarole is a traditional chicory that combines resilience, freshness, and hardiness . Its well-formed head with a whitish heart is surrounded by broad, crisp, and slightly wavy leaves , sometimes reaching up to 40 cm in length. Its texture and less bitter taste compared to curly endives make it particularly versatile and a welcome addition to both the garden and the table .

It thrives in temperate climates and is sown in late summer or spring, depending on the region, to provide late harvests. Its upright and structural form integrates harmoniously into ecological gardens , promoting crop rotation , extending autumn harvests , and attracting pollinators during its flowering period.

Robust and generous, it quickly becomes a reliable ally in the kitchen garden , especially for gardeners keen to diversify greenery throughout the seasons.

Growing climate: Temperate climate
Sowing difficulty level: Easy
Care required: Occasional
Note: Sensitive to excessive heat, prefers cooler seasons.

Crisp, slightly bitter leaves, perfect in winter salads, sautéed, or added to rustic soups and fragrant stews. The tender heart is prized for its balanced sweetness, somewhere between lettuce and wild chicory.

Traditionally prized in European peasant kitchens, escarole is a valuable alternative to lettuce, especially in autumn and winter. It keeps better than curly varieties, making it an asset for late harvests and self-sufficient green supplies.